Introduction
The GE TL86597 InstaJack Wireless Phoneline Jack system allows you to instantly add an additional phone jack to any room in your house without the need for new wiring, drilling, or tools. It operates by transmitting phone signals over your existing electrical wiring, providing a convenient solution for extending telephone access for various devices.
Important Safety Information
Please read and understand all safety instructions before using this product to ensure proper operation and prevent damage.
- Direct Wall Outlet Connection: Do not plug the device into a power strip, universal power supply, or surge protector. The device has built-in surge suppression and must be plugged directly into a wall outlet.
- Proper Placement: Ensure the base unit is plugged into an electrical outlet near an existing phone jack. The extension unit should be plugged into an electrical outlet near the desired phone or device location.
- Electrical Circuit Compatibility: This product is designed to work by sending signals over your existing house wiring. For optimal performance, ensure the base and extension units are on the same electrical circuit.
- UL Approved: This product is UL tested and approved for safety.
- Caller ID Limitation: This device does not pass Caller ID information to InstaJack remote extensions. This is a normal operational characteristic.
Package Contents
The GE TL86597 InstaJack Wireless Phoneline Jack system typically includes the following components:
- One (1) GE InstaJack Base Unit
- One (1) GE InstaJack Extension Unit
- One (1) 6 ft. Phone Cord
Product Overview
The GE TL86597 InstaJack system consists of two main components: a Base Unit and an Extension Unit. These units work together to create a wireless phone jack using your home's electrical wiring.
Figure 1: Front view of the GE TL86597 InstaJack Wireless Phoneline Jack packaging, showing the base unit and extension unit, along with icons indicating compatibility with computer modems, telephones/VoIP, satellite receivers, and DVRs/TiVo.
Figure 2: Rear view of the GE TL86597 InstaJack Wireless Phoneline Jack packaging, detailing features, setup instructions, and regulatory information. It illustrates how the base unit connects to an existing phone jack and the extension unit provides a new jack.
Setup and Installation
Follow these steps to set up your GE TL86597 InstaJack system:
- Step 1: Connect the Base Unit. Locate an existing active phone jack and an electrical wall outlet nearby. Plug the GE InstaJack Base Unit directly into the electrical wall outlet. Connect one end of the provided 6 ft. phone cord to the phone jack on the Base Unit and the other end to your existing wall phone jack.
- Step 2: Position the Extension Unit. Choose a room where you need an additional phone jack. Plug the GE InstaJack Extension Unit directly into an electrical wall outlet in that room. Ensure this outlet is on the same electrical circuit as the Base Unit for optimal performance.
- Step 3: Connect Your Device. Plug your telephone, answering machine, computer modem, fax machine, or satellite receiver into the phone jack located on the side of the Extension Unit.
- Step 4: Verify Connection. The Extension Unit typically has an indicator light to confirm a successful connection. Refer to the unit itself for specific light behavior.
Operating Instructions
Once properly installed, the GE TL86597 InstaJack system operates automatically. Any device connected to the Extension Unit will function as if it were connected to a traditional wall phone jack.
- Telephones: Use your corded or cordless phones as normal for making and receiving calls.
- Answering Machines: Connect your answering machine to the Extension Unit to record messages.
- Computer Modems/Fax Machines: The system supports data transmission for computer modems and fax machines.
- Satellite Receivers: Connect compatible satellite receivers for phone line connectivity, often used for ordering pay-per-view or interactive services.
Important Note: Caller ID information is not passed through the InstaJack remote extensions.
Maintenance
The GE TL86597 InstaJack Wireless Phoneline Jack system requires minimal maintenance to ensure continued performance.
- Cleaning: Keep the units clean by wiping them with a dry, soft cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners, aerosol cleaners, or harsh chemicals, as these may damage the units.
- Connection Integrity: Ensure both units remain plugged directly into wall outlets and are not connected to power strips or surge protectors. This is crucial for proper operation and surge protection.
- Relocation: If you need to relocate the units, unplug both the Base Unit and the Extension Unit from their electrical outlets before moving them to new locations.
Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your GE TL86597 InstaJack system, refer to the table below for common problems and solutions.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No dial tone or connection | Units not properly plugged in | Ensure both the Base Unit and Extension Unit are firmly plugged directly into working electrical wall outlets. |
| No dial tone or connection | Units on different electrical circuits | The system works best when both units are on the same electrical circuit. Try plugging the Extension Unit into a different outlet on the same circuit as the Base Unit. |
| No dial tone or connection | Connected to power strip/surge protector | Disconnect units from any power strips or surge protectors and plug them directly into wall outlets. The device has built-in surge suppression. |
| Static or poor call quality | Electrical interference | Try plugging the units into different wall outlets. Ensure no high-power appliances are on the same circuit. |
| Caller ID not displayed | Product limitation | The GE TL86597 InstaJack system does not pass Caller ID information to remote extensions. This is normal operation. |
| Device not working after some time | Unit malfunction or overheating | Ensure proper ventilation around the units. If the unit overheated or stopped working, it may require replacement. |
Specifications
Key technical specifications for the GE TL86597 InstaJack Wireless Phoneline Jack:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | TL-86597 |
| Brand | GE |
| Product Dimensions | 9.75 x 8 x 3 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.15 pounds |
| Connectivity Technology | AC (Powerline Communication) |
| Compatible Devices | Corded phones, Cordless/Wireless phones, Satellite receivers, Answering machines, Computer Modems, Fax machines |
| Color | White |
| Number of Ports | 1 (per extension unit) |
| Power Source | 120V AC 60 Hz |
| Certifications | UL Tested and Approved |
Warranty and Support
This product comes with a one-year limited warranty from the manufacturer. For warranty claims or technical support, please refer to the contact information provided in the product packaging or visit the official GE consumer electronics support website.
For additional information or to purchase related products, you may visit the GE Store on Amazon.